Okanagan Wine Fest - Penticton 2009 Best of...

One of the reasons I write my reviews, is to give people presepectives from sources that aren't written by consultants and professional critics.  Because you know, I often find that anything that comes from a critic is usually so off base and laughable that I don't even pay attention anymore.  With Fototrips, it's an unbiased look from the vantage point of a regular consumer.  There is nothing in it for us here, no kickbacks, no freebies, no nothing.  Having been in the tourism business, I am all too aware of ensuring that visitors get directed to specific locations.  It's all about credits, points and other special treatment.  I know that.  It's just the straight goods here.

This past weekend,  I spent a couple of days in the Okanagan traveling up and down the Naramata Bench in search of the best grapes, hospitality (I'm always looking for that these days), location and good old fashioned fun.  While I did find some new and interesting wines to hold me over for the winter, I thought I would take the time and list off some of my favorites that need to be on YOUR list if you plan on hitting the valley for all the spring releases in wine country.  It was tough going but here's my list:

The Best Patio: (Yes, Pack a Picnic Basket Boo Boo and enjoy the sunshine)

Lang Winery
Soaring Eagle
Marichel tied with Lake Breeze

Best Service:  (Informative, friendly, knowledgable, experienced, helpful)

Marichel
D'Angelo
Ruby Tuesday
Soaring Eagle
Nichol

Best Overall Pic: (Hey, just my new favorite.  It's all about quality here, not quantity)

Marichel

Best Entertainment: (....we went to a garden party)

Therapy

Best Red:  (Just a short 2 years ago, I never liked Syrah...hmmmmmmm!)

Marichel 2006 Syrah

Best White: (Just a short 1 year ago, I never liked white wine...hmmmmmm!)

Ruby Tuesday 2006 Gewurztraminer

Besure to check out West Shore Galleries for more great pictures from this past weekend.  Follow the link below.  If you have your own thoughts on the festival, be sure to let us know. We'll see you in the spring.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/